Here’s a revelation that might just flip your understanding of Formula 1 history: Jenson Button, the 15-time Grand Prix winner, says his most cherished F1 car isn’t the iconic Brawn BGP 001 that delivered him the 2009 Drivers’ Championship. Surprised? You’re not alone. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Button insists the 2011 McLaren MP4-26 was the superior machine. And this is the part most people miss: while the Brawn’s fairy-tale story is unforgettable, its technical prowess wasn’t as dominant as fans often assume.
Button’s journey in F1 is a tale of resilience and adaptability, spanning teams like Williams, Benetton/Renault, BAR/Honda, Brawn, and McLaren. Yet, when asked about the best car he ever drove, he doesn’t hesitate: ‘The 2011 McLaren was the one,’ he told Motorsport.com. That car, in which he secured four Grand Prix wins—including the longest race in F1 history in Canada—was a masterpiece of engineering. Despite finishing runner-up to Sebastian Vettel that year, Button describes it as the most balanced and responsive car of his career.
But here’s the controversial bit: While the Brawn BGP 001 is celebrated for its underdog triumph, Button clarifies it wasn’t as flawless as its reputation suggests. ‘It was better than the competition, but it had weaknesses,’ he explains. The 2009 season’s rule changes reduced downforce, giving the Brawn an edge, but it wasn’t the fastest car on the grid. And this is where it gets even more thought-provoking: Could the Brawn’s success be more about timing and strategy than sheer performance?
Button also gives a nod to other cars that left a mark on him. The 2004 BAR-Honda 006, with its flexi rear wing and V10 engine, was ‘a joy to drive,’ earning him 10 podiums despite not winning a race. And his first F1 car, the Williams FW22, felt ‘like a big go-kart’—a nostalgic favorite he even got to drive again at Silverstone last year.
Here’s the question that’ll spark debate: Is the Brawn BGP 001 overrated, or is its legacy untouchable? Button’s insights challenge us to look beyond the headlines and appreciate the nuances of F1 engineering. What’s your take? Let’s hear it in the comments—do you agree with Button, or does the Brawn’s story still reign supreme?
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